The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has embarked on a working visit to Bawku, aimed at assessing the current security situation and fostering cooperation between the Police and the local youth.
The visit comes on the heels of violent clashes between the youth and security personnel, which resulted in the death of 27-year-old Fuseini Iddrisu and left several others injured, including a police officer and an immigration officer.
Background
The violence in Bawku erupted after a young man was allegedly shot by the police, sparking widespread outrage and protests among the local youth.
The situation escalated into an arson attack on the residence of the area’s Member of Parliament and Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga, in Wiidi, a suburb of Bawku.
The Police and Ghana Armed Forces have since restored calm to the area through joint patrols and operations.
IGP’s Engagement
During his visit, the IGP and his team met with the victims of the violence who sustained gunshot injuries and are receiving medical attention.
The victims expressed their deep appreciation for the IGP’s visit and appealed to him to work towards bringing lasting peace to Bawku.
Ibrahim Iddrisu, the youth president, commended the IGP’s hands-on approach and commitment to pulling everyone together for peace.
Meetings with Stakeholders
The IGP also paid a courtesy call on the Overlord of Bawku, Zugraan Bawku Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, where he expressed regret over the death of Fuseini Iddrisu and sought the support of the Overlord and his elders in resolving the impasse between the youth and the Police.
The IGP assured the Bawku Naba and the people of the area of the Police’s readiness to work hand-in-hand with the community to ensure peace and security.
Assessing Damage
The IGP’s team visited various locations, including the Police Training School at Nangode, Pusiga, Kusasa, and Garu, to assess the extent of damage to property and interact with officers and members of the community.
The team also engaged with police personnel and other security agencies at the District Police Headquarters in Bawku, emphasizing the need for neutrality and adherence to their mandate as prescribed by law.
–BY Daniel Bampoe
